Immunotherapy targeting plasma ASM is protective in a mouse model of Alzheimer's disease.

Acid sphingomyelinase (ASM) has been implicated in neurodegenerative disease pathology, including Alzheimer's disease (AD). However, the specific role of plasma ASM in promoting these pathologies is poorly understood. Herein, we explore plasma ASM as a circulating factor that accelerates neuropathological features in AD by exposing young APP/PS1 mice to the blood of mice overexpressing ASM, through parabiotic surgery.

Discovery of a dual-action small molecule that improves neuropathological features of Alzheimer's disease mice.

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is characterized by complex, multifactorial neuropathology, suggesting that small molecules targeting multiple neuropathological factors are likely required to successfully impact clinical progression. Acid sphingomyelinase (ASM) activation has been recognized as an important contributor to these neuropathological features in AD, leading to the concept of using ASM inhibitors for the treatment of this disorder. Here we report the identification of KARI 201, a direct ASM inhibitor evaluated for AD treatment.

Metabolic Profiling Analysis Reveals the Potential Contribution of Barley Sprouts against Oxidative Stress and Related Liver Cell Damage in Habitual Alcohol Drinkers.

Chronic excessive alcohol consumption is associated with multiple liver defects, such as steatosis and cirrhosis, mainly attributable to excessive reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. Barley sprouts ( L.) contain high levels of polyphenols that may serve as potential antioxidants.

Dental management of patients with X-linked hypophosphatemia.

X-linked hypophosphatemia (XLH) is a hereditary metabolic disease caused by the loss of phosphate through the renal tubules into the urine, and an associated decrease in serum calcium and potassium phosphate. Its dental features include spontaneous dental abscesses that occur in the absence of trauma or dental caries. The aim of this case report was to describe the dental problems of XLH patients and to evaluate limitations in their treatment.

Genome-wide methylation profiling of ADPKD identified epigenetically regulated genes associated with renal cyst development.

Autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) is a common human genetic disease characterized by the formation of multiple fluid-filled cysts in bilateral kidneys. Although mutations in polycystic kidney disease 1 (PKD1) are predominantly responsible for ADPKD, the focal and sporadic property of individual cystogenesis suggests another molecular mechanism such as epigenetic alterations. To determine the epigenomic alterations in ADPKD and their functional relevance, ADPKD and non-ADPKD individuals were analyzed by unbiased methylation profiling genome-wide and compared with their expression data.